Real reason I dumped PDP for APC – Edo Assembly Speaker

Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mr. Blessing Agbebaku, has explained that his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was motivated by a desire to safeguard the privileges of his office and ensure continued development for his constituency.

Agbebaku made the disclosure on Wednesday while formally notifying the Assembly of his decision. He defected alongside two other lawmakers—Hon. Sunday Fada Eigbiremonlen and Hon. Idaiye Yekini Oisayemoje—who also left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling APC.

According to the Speaker, maintaining his position in the House under the current political climate would be more feasible within the APC, enabling him to better serve the people he represents.

He said, “I defected to the APC to retain the benefit of the speaker seat for the development of my constituency.

“For me, it is not about the party but about the development of our area. As a speaker, if I throw away this position because of the party, the position that would enhance development in my area, it means that I am not ready to serve my people.

“Distinguished members, I want to formally let this House know that yesterday, the Speaker of this House, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, defected to the APC,” he said.

Agbebaku explained that his constituents were in support of his decision, noting “there is ongoing developmental projects in Owan West constituency initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo.”

“So, my defection was not driven by personal gains but commitment to the welfare of those who elected him. Politics is all about interest, but not my interest, the interest of my people that gave me the mandate to be here today,” he added.